When I was a kid, I used to dread Labor Day because it meant that summer was over and school was starting.

These days I welcome Labor Day because now that I live in Arizona, I am more than ready for summer to be over (school started mid August) and for the weather to cool down.

Labor Day is a chance for people to take advantage of an extended weekend. That could include some entertaining or being entertained. September is a great month to take advantage of the end of summer harvest and eat fresh and seasonally. Your mileage may vary as to what’s in season based on your geographical area.

One of my favorite things to do is to have a buffet of salads. I know the guys might not like that idea if they don’t want to show off at the grill, make a meatloaf the day before and serve cold meatloaf sandwiches with salads.

This would be my ideal menu for a Labor Day gathering:

Gazpacho - This is like a liquid salad with a zing. Prepare a day in advance to marinate the flavors. May be served in mugs with spoons and tortilla chips

Meatloaf Sandwiches on dinner rolls or whole wheat buns - Make the meatloaf the night before and serve cold with assorted garnishes and condiments.

Summer vegetable pasta salad made with more vegetables, more often and the Cajun seasoning adds a bit of a kick.

Three bean salad - Nothing gets any easier than this

I don’t turn my oven on from May through September so there’s no baking for me. You could ask people to bring a dessert or pick up a good pie like key lime or lemon meringue or buy some good brownies and top them with vanilla ice cream or gelato. Everyone loves fresh berries and it’s a thoughtful dessert for people dieting or diabetic.

Serve with cold beer and ice tea.